Glasses for All Event

CCA Student Donates Eyeglasses to the Homeless

Glasses for All, a nonprofit organization that collects and recycles used eyeglasses, recently held its first distribution event at the Neil Good Day Center, donating over 200 pairs of prescription and reading glasses to people in need. It was then that Glasses for All Founder Amy Yan, a student at Canyon Crest Academy and 92130 resident, learned that many homeless people lose their glasses to thefts, assaults, or other unfortunate events.

“Prior to the event, I wasn’t fully aware of just how high the demand for glasses among the homeless was,” said Amy. “I had a general idea that there was a demand, but I had previously assumed that glasses were auxiliary resources compared to the bare necessities of food, shelter, and clothing. After conversing with the homeless in line, I came to understand that the necessity for glasses, for clear vision, was crucial as well.” One woman even cried tears of joy when she found a pair of glasses that fit her. Following the distribution event, Glasses for All pooled the remaining glasses and donated 40 pairs to the Episcopal Community Services’ Friend to Friend homeless outreach program.

Amy conceptualized Glasses for All in April 2016 when she found some old glasses while cleaning her house. She didn’t want to throw them away or leave them sitting in a drawer, so she decided to start collecting them to donate to those in need. The organization depends on glasses donations from local churches, community members, and other organizations. Learn more about how you can help at www.glassesforall.org.